David Gilmour – On an Island (2006): Serenity After the Storm
Released in 2006, On an Island marked David Gilmour’s return to solo work after more than two decades. Unlike the tension and confrontation of About Face, this album is calm, reflective, and deeply personal—an introspective journey shaped by age, memory, and peace rather than conflict.
History and Background
On an Island was released in March 2006, making it Gilmour’s first solo studio album since 1984. By this point, Pink Floyd had officially ended following the death of Syd Barrett in the same year and the brief reunion at Live 8 in 2005.
Recorded primarily at Astoria Studios (Gilmour’s houseboat studio) and Abbey Road, the album reflects a slower, more contemplative creative process. Many lyrics were co-written with Polly Samson, Gilmour’s wife, whose poetic style strongly influenced the album’s themes of isolation, memory, love, and mortality.
The album debuted at #1 in the UK and performed strongly worldwide, proving that Gilmour’s appeal remained powerful well into the 21st century.
Credits & Lineup
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David Gilmour – vocals, guitars, keyboards, production
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Polly Samson – lyrics
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Richard Wright – keyboards, backing vocals
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David Crosby & Graham Nash – backing vocals
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Phil Manzanera – guitar
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Guy Pratt – bass
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Steve DiStanislao – drums
The presence of Richard Wright gave the album an unmistakable Pink Floyd atmosphere, while Crosby and Nash’s harmonies added warmth and depth.
Musical Style and Themes
On an Island is rooted in ambient rock, progressive textures, and melodic guitar atmospheres. The album avoids aggression and embraces space, restraint, and emotional subtlety.
Lyrically, the album focuses on reflection and introspection—looking back on life, love, and the passing of time. Gilmour’s guitar work is expressive and minimal, often allowing silence and sustain to speak louder than speed or complexity.
Track Highlights
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“Castellorizon” – Instrumental opener setting the album’s tranquil mood.
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“On an Island” – Title track with lush harmonies from Crosby and Nash.
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“The Blue” – One of Gilmour’s most atmospheric guitar pieces.
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“Take a Breath” – Slightly more upbeat, addressing anxiety and modern life.
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“Smile” – Tender and intimate, centered on personal reflection.
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“Where We Start” – Gentle closing track emphasizing acceptance and continuity.
Fun Facts & Trivia
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David Crosby and Graham Nash recorded their vocals remotely, sending tapes back and forth before meeting in person.
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Richard Wright’s involvement marked his most significant collaboration with Gilmour since Pink Floyd’s classic era.
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The album’s title reflects Gilmour’s desire for emotional and creative isolation while recording.
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Many guitar solos were recorded in a single take to preserve their emotional spontaneity.
Did You Know?
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The album inspired a massive world tour in 2006, documented on Remember That Night.
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Several songs were written while Gilmour was sailing or relaxing near the sea, influencing the album’s calm atmosphere.
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On an Island was widely praised for avoiding contemporary trends in favor of timeless sound design.
Goofs, Myths, and Misconceptions
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Some listeners expected a Pink Floyd reunion album; On an Island was always intended as a solo statement.
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The album is sometimes criticized as “too slow,” missing its deliberate meditative intent.
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Despite Wright’s presence, the album was not recorded under the Pink Floyd name due to legal and personal boundaries.
Cultural Legacy
On an Island is widely regarded as David Gilmour’s strongest solo album. It demonstrated that maturity and restraint could be as powerful as youthful ambition. The album also reaffirmed Gilmour’s legacy as one of rock’s most expressive guitarists.
For many fans, it stands as a graceful epilogue to the Pink Floyd story—a peaceful counterpart to the band’s more turbulent final years.
Conclusion
On an Island (2006) is a deeply personal and serene album that rewards patience and attentive listening. Free from conflict and pressure, it captures David Gilmour at peace with his past and confident in his voice—proof that some of the most meaningful music comes later in life.
